City Profile
Alexandria, Louisiana
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Alexandria, Louisiana, a city nestled in the heart of the state, serves as a regional hub for commerce, healthcare, and education. With a population of approximately 44,060 in 2024, it offers a blend of Southern charm and urban amenities. The city's history is deeply rooted in its strategic location on the Red River, which historically facilitated trade and transportation. Today, Alexandria continues to attract residents with its relatively affordable cost of living and a strong sense of community. Despite a projected population decline, the city maintains its importance as a central Louisiana destination.
Louisiana, a state in the southern United States, is characterized by its unique blend of French, Spanish, African, and Creole cultures, evident in its vibrant music, cuisine, and festivals like Mardi Gras. The economy is significantly driven by the energy sector, particularly petroleum refining, oil drilling, and natural gas extraction, alongside strong manufacturing, healthcare, and agribusiness industries. Living in Louisiana generally offers a lower cost of living compared to the national average, with housing and utilities often more affordable. The climate is humid subtropical, featuring long, hot, and humid summers with frequent precipitation, and mild winters, though the state is prone to tropical storms and hurricanes. The lifestyle is often described as relaxed and welcoming, with a strong emphasis on community and outdoor activities.
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in Alexandria, LA, is notably more affordable than the national average, estimated to be around 8% lower overall. This affordability is primarily driven by significantly lower housing expenses, which are about 26% below the national average. While groceries are also approximately 4% cheaper, utility prices in Alexandria are slightly higher, about 3% above the national average. Transportation costs are also marginally higher, at 1% above the national average, but the overall lower expenses for housing and groceries contribute to a more budget-friendly lifestyle compared to many other U.S. cities.
Income
Salary Insights
Alexandria's economy is diverse, with key industries including healthcare and social assistance, retail trade, and accommodation and food services, which were the largest employers in 2024. Other significant sectors contributing to the local job market include education, manufacturing, banking, and forestry. The city saw a job growth rate of 3.32% between 2023 and 2024, indicating a stable, if not rapidly expanding, employment landscape. Major employers like CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini, Rapides Regional Medical Center, and Procter & Gamble contribute to a consistent job market. While specific data on the remote work scene is not readily available, the traditional industries suggest a predominantly in-person workforce.
The average salary in Alexandria is $50,107 per year. You would need approximately $38,952 to live comfortably.
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Mobility
Transport
Transportation in Alexandria is largely car-dependent, with 77.7% of residents driving alone to work in 2024. The average commute time for residents is 17.4 minutes, which is relatively short compared to national averages. Car ownership averages around one car per household. While specific public transit and walkability scores are not readily available, the high reliance on personal vehicles suggests that public transportation options may be limited, and walkability might not be a primary mode of getting around for most residents.
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